Leacock happy to be back in the frame for Rams

Dean Leacock emerged from his first action for Derby County for over 8 months and declared "it's great to be back."

The commanding centre half came through 45 minutes against Burton Albion on Saturday and is now targeting a successful pre season campaign ahead of the big kick off at Pride Park against newly promoted Peterborough United on Saturday 8th August.

Leacock, who has been suffering from a mixture of groin and pelvic problems, partnered Patrick Kisnorbo in the heart of the Rams defence at the Pirelli Stadium.

He says it's a welcome relief to be back in the saddle.

Dean Leacock said: "It's been a long wait but it's great to be back in action and wearing the Derby shirt again.

"I've been straining at the leash to play and to be honest I really enjoyed the game.

"Of course it's been extremely frustrating being out for so long but all you can do is remain positive and work hard with the medical team.

"Hopefully that's all behind me now and I can concentrate on fighting for a place in the starting eleven for the opening game of the season; that is my goal now.

"We have a good squad here and there's lots of competition at the back, particularly in my position.

"Ultimately that competition will make us all sharper and that can only be a good thing for the team."

The Rams are in action tomorrow night (Tuesday 14th July), with a Derby County XI travelling to face Arnold Town at the Eagle Valley Stadium.

Derby County's first team will feature again on Saturday 18th July, facing Chesterfield at Saltergate in a 3pm kick off.